Baby movements during pregnancy

People tend to feel their baby moving for the first time between 16-24 weeks of pregnancy. If this is your first baby, you might not feel any movements until 20 weeks. 

If you haven’t felt your baby moving by 24 weeks, speak to your midwife who may check for your baby’s heartbeats and movement. 

From the first movements, you’ll feel your baby moving right up until birth. 

Your baby’s brain is developing from very early pregnancy, and your baby can hear and recognise your voice from 16 weeks, so talk and sing to your bump on a regular basis – this can help them to feel safe and secure.

Learn more about promoting attachment and the ‘1001 critical days’ here.

What will my baby’s movements feel like?

Your baby’s movements can feel like a gentle fluttering or swirling, this may progress to kicks and jerks as your baby grows.  

Every baby is different, so there’s no set number of ‘normal’ movements you should feel each day.  

There’s no need to count or note down the number of movements you feel, but it is important to get to know your baby’s usual pattern of movement. This is because unwell babies may be less active than usual, and the sooner you notice this the quicker you’ll be able to get treatment. 

Speak to your midwifery team immediately if there’s a change to the usual pattern, such as if they are moving less than usual or not at all, or if you have any pain associated with your baby’s movements. 

Home heartbeat listening kits (also known as dopplers) are not a reliable way to check your baby’s health, and just because you can hear your baby’s heartbeat does not mean they are healthy. If you have any concerns, speak to a medical professional as soon as possible. 

Useful links

NHS – Your baby’s movements